Emma Donovan
A powerful creative musical force.
Originally from Northern NSW, Emma has performed across the globe treating audiences to her rich soulful voice as a solo artist and as part of the award winning Black Arm Band. She has performed with respected Australian Indigenous artists including: Frank Yamma, Archie Roach, Ruby Hunter, Kerriane Cox, Christine Anu, Tiddas, Yothu Yindi and Jimmy Little whilst her vast concert experience includes performances in The Royal Concert Hall London, Musee de Quai Branli Paris, Benaki Museum Athens, Tjibaou Cultural Centre New Caledonia, 10th Festival of Pacific Arts Palau, Treaty Grounds of Waitangi New Zealand to the concert hall in the Sydney Opera House with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
With the inclusion of her traditional language Gumbayngirr, through her songs, Emma is committed to educating the global community to understand more about the depth of Aboriginal culture and spirituality. Seamlessly blending genres from Country and Gospel to Soul, Emma’s capacity to connect with her audience continues to impact on the Australian main stream and International stage.
Emma’s new 5 track EP & Video entitled Ngarraanga (Remember) or Ngarraanga Ngiinundi Yuludarra (Remember Your Dreaming) is a tribute to the Stolen Generations and includes traditional language. The songs are intercepted with traditional spoken word by Uncle Harry Buchanan with backing vocals on Ngarranga, Changes & Try performed by Gary Pinto (CBD) and Juanita Tippins.
The video for Ngarraanga was shot at Carriageworks in Redfern in Sydney and features the extraordinary talent of Torres Strait Islander dancer, Albert David, inter-woven with archival footage.
Ngarraanga has taken out best R&B Single of the Year at this year’s inaugural BUMP Awards, voted 100% by community, with Emma Donovan also picking up Female Artist of the Year!
Ngarraanga has also been nominated for 2 Deadlys for Single of the Year and Best Female Artist. Winners will be announced on October 15th at the Sydney Opera House.
